PIP vs Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is the disability benefit for people over State Pension age. It has two rates and no mobility component. If you reach State Pension age while on PIP, your PIP continues; only new claims after SPA go to Attendance Allowance.
2026/27 weekly rates
| Benefit | Lower / standard | Higher / enhanced | Mobility? |
|---|---|---|---|
| PIP Daily Living | £73.90 | £110.40 | Mobility paid separately |
| Attendance Allowance | £73.90 | £110.40 | No mobility component |
Eligibility split by State Pension age
- Under State Pension age: claim PIP.
- At or above State Pension age, claiming for the first time: claim Attendance Allowance.
- Already on PIP when you reach State Pension age: PIP continues. You do not need to switch.
Why Attendance Allowance has no mobility component
The Attendance Allowance design assumes most over-65 mobility costs are met via free bus passes (England) or concessionary travel (Scotland and Wales). The Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) being rolled out in Scotland follows the same two-rate, care-only structure.
What's easier to claim
Attendance Allowance is typically faster to be awarded (decision in 6 to 12 weeks). The form is shorter than the PIP2; there is rarely a face-to-face assessment. Awards are usually open-ended (no fixed review date).
Carer's Allowance passporting
Both PIP Daily Living and Attendance Allowance (either rate) trigger Carer's Allowance for a carer providing 35+ hours a week. The earnings limit and 35-hour rule apply identically.